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>>46031201

“Ra, I'll leave the details in your capable hands,” Sho Tatsuhiro says lightly as he struts back to his palanquin, already growing bored with this subject. As his masked servants lower the platform, any hope of guessing their expressions or their true thoughts defeated by those blank masks, the Emperor hops onto his seat and raps one heel against the floor. Rising, the mute servants turn and bear him silently away.

“I really must apologise,” Ra says eventually, when you can be sure that the Emperor has departed completely, “I thought he would have a medal for you, a ceremonial sword at the most. Not... this.”

You had no idea what to expect, you tell him, and you still didn't expect this. Does this mean you're a member of the nobility now?

“Technically, yes... not that that means much these days,” Ra forces an apologetic smile, “The Emperor has more or less absolute control over the laws of the land – as you might be starting to realise – so you won't be required to vote on matters or make your voice heard at court. Your opinion might hold a little more weight than it used to, but I wouldn't expect too much. On the bright side, this doesn't really give the Emperor any extra leverage over you – at worst, he can strip you of your lands.”

Maybe, you reply, that wouldn't be so bad. What are you supposed to do with an island, anyway?

“If you wished to sign stewardship over to someone else – your temple, say – I can arrange the appropriate documents. Or, if you wish to keep hold of it for now, I can have a boat chartered to take you there – in case you want to look things over,” Ra shakes his head, tiredness slipping through his usual composure, “Of course, there's no need to decide immediately.”

>Get the boat ready – I want to visit it again
>Send the appropriate documents to the Nameless Temple – I'm returning there as soon as I can
>I'll decide this matter later
>Other

>>46031209
>Send the appropriate documents to the Nameless Temple – I'm returning there as soon as I can
"I'll iron this out there."

>>46031209
>Send the appropriate documents to the Nameless Temple – I'm returning there as soon as I can

>>46031209
>Get the boat ready – I want to visit it again

>>46031209
>>Send the appropriate documents to the Nameless Temple – I'm returning there as soon as I can
We can visit it later I guess.

>>46031209
>>Send the appropriate documents to the Nameless Temple – I'm returning there as soon as I can
MISSING AN EYE

Surprised neither Ra nor Sho mentioned that.

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Have the appropriate documents sent to the Nameless Temple, you decide, you're going to be returning there as soon as you can. Once you're back at home, you can iron things out properly. You've got little use for an island – and little desire to rule over the population of one – but it might prove to be an excellent asset for the Nameless Temple. A training camp, a secondary base or even just a peaceful retreat – there are plenty of ways the land could be put to good use. Of course, that doesn't even take into account what lies beneath the sea nearby. There are enough mysteries there to keep the temple busy for some time to come.

“I understand,” Ra nods, “As a legal technicality, the land would still be recorded under your name – and all associated titles – but I can assure you that signing over the stewardship to your Mentor, or any other member of the temple, would be legally sound. If I may offer my personal opinion?”

Go ahead, you confirm, you'll be interested to hear what the old man has to say about this whole mess.

“I think it's the right choice,” Ra confides, “Please understand, I have my own reasons for saying this, but I feel you are too valuable to be wasted on the day to day business of leadership. With the situation being what it is, you need to be able to be where you need to be at all times. To wander, say.”

Which raises a rather uncomfortable idea – perhaps the Emperor wants you busy elsewhere? As Ra has said, it seems like the boy is just as eager to provoke conflict as your shadowy enemies. A “reward” that stops you from maintaining the fragile peace would only further that goal...

“I advise caution,” Ra warns you, reading your expression, “Paranoia can keep you safe, but it is all too easy to get lost in it. Keep an open mind, but avoid jumping to any conclusions.”

[1/2]

>>46031549

Wise counsel, you admit, and something you'll try to keep in mind.

“While you're here, however,” Ra adds, “I know that you turned down the Emperor's offer – wisely so, I believe – but would you care to listen to mine? I'm asking that we continue this... “unofficial relationship” for the time being. We'd both benefit, and it may avert future problems. Consider the idea, at least. I don't have any vital need to call upon your services yet, in either case, but there is one thing I could ask of you.”

Most people, you think bitterly, seem to have something they want from you. Nodding for him to continue, you hold back from making any commitments just yet.

“The next time you're in the temple city of Garuna, I'd like you to speak with someone,” Ra lowers his voice slightly, “An agent within the sisterhood of Selene. I merely wish for you to meet, and perhaps share what information you have on... relevant matters. However, be careful – she may be compromised. It could be risky business, but I ask that you consider it. At least, keep it in mind for when your business next takes you to Garuna.”

>I'll keep that in mind. I look forwards to working with you, Ra
>I don't want to get involved in your spying
>I can't promise you anything. Not right now
>There's something I wanted to know... (Write in)
>Other

>>46031584
>I'll keep that in mind. I look forwards to working with you, Ra

>>46031584
>I can't promise you anything. Not right now
Can't really see us in Garuna between the island and the gun business. Besides, Ira is rather notable between rescuing the priestess and personally knowing the head, right? Not exactly discreet.

>>46031584
>>46031646
This

We'll do what we can but no promises. We might cause more harm than good.

>>46031584
>>I'll keep that in mind. I look forwards to working with you, Ra
>>I can't promise you anything. Not right now
Yes to cooperating but we can't be sure of meeting his spy.
>>There's something I wanted to know... (Write in)
How did he know about the steel ring right away?

You can't promise anything, you tell him, since you might not be in Garuna for quite some time. With things being what they are, you've got a great many other things that are demanding your attention. Besides, you add, you might not be the best person for the job. Between rescuing Miura from her captors and meeting with the head priestess, you might be too much of a public figure around Selene's temple. Being seen with you, you point out, might be too dangerous for his agent.

“Yes, that might be right,” Ra frowns a little, concerned by the prospect, “A more discrete method may be possible. However, you're right – promising anything at this moment, when the situation is developing so quickly, may be a mistake. However...”

However, you interrupt, you will be willing to continue working with him. Cooperation will benefit the both of you, after all. There was just one matter you'd like to ask him about – how was it that he immediately knew the ring you were asking about? Your description – a steel ring – could have been a lot of things, yet he was able to put a name to it immediately. How?

“The Ring of the Faceless is something of a legend in the palace,” Ra explains, “Not the item itself, but how it came to be in our possession. Simply put, we don't know – it appeared in the treasury one day without ever appearing in the records. It was kept as a curiosity for a while, and then vanished just as suddenly. We never had the chance to study it much, but it attracted a certain amount of attention because of the age – apparently, it was older than the first recorded examples of steel being made. Interesting, no?”

So if it existed before people were working steel...

“Exactly!” Ra nods, “It came from somewhere else. Consult your archives, Wanderer, and you might be able to learn more.”

[1/2]

>>46031911

From there, the conversation comes to a natural end. Shaking your hand, Ra states again that he'll have the papers sent, by horseback, to the Nameless Temple. As you're turning to leave, he speaks up for the last time.

“Oh, Ira?” he comments, “I'm sorry about your eye. I'll admit, I have a certain curiosity, but...”

But you'd rather not talk about it, you tell him firmly.

“As I suspected,” Ra lets out a low, rather humourless laugh, “Good tidings, Wanderer, and a safe journey.” With that, he turns and walks away. Once he's receded from view completely, a pair of soldiers – although they move with a natural and deadly grace that you rarely see in soldiers – slide out of the shadows and follow him away.

As to be expected, you think bitterly, of the Emperor's spymaster. Shaking your head, you turn and begin the weary walk back towards the Low Residential district and more familiar surroundings. At the first aviary you pass, however, you stop. Better to let the Mentor – and Howa – know what to expect when you arrive. Paying your money, you give the softly cooing birds a venomous look as you write out a brief note explaining the situation. You also write in a request for Howa to look up the ring Ra mentioned and then, tentatively, add in a warning to her. She shouldn't be shocked, you write, when she next sees you.

For a second, shorter note, you write a message for Aya – assuring her that you weren't arrested, and explaining that you're returning to the Nameless Temple. Sending both notes on their way, you step out into the streets and look for an inn to spend the night at.

>In the morning, you'll hit the road
>You've got some other business in the capital before leaving (Write in)
>Other

>>46032046
>In the morning, you'll hit the road

>>46032046
>>In the morning, you'll hit the road
Sup Loch

>>46032046
>>In the morning, you'll hit the road
Can't think of anything else we need to do.

>>46032046
>You've got some other business in the capital before leaving (Write in)
Gain extra sympathy for Pet- I mean one eyed history goddess that had been forgotten about. One eyes gotta stick together.

You'll hit the road in the morning, you decide, since you've done everything you needed to do in the capital. A good night's sleep – what little is left of the night, at least – will prepare you for the day ahead. In fact, it doesn't even need to be a good night's sleep, just as long as you can pass out for a few hours. With that thought in mind, you settle for the first inn you can find that has open rooms. A dismal place, but the ale flows freely.

>Rested for the night, Health restored to 90

In the morning, you find an unwelcome surprise waiting for you. A scrap of paper, slipped under your door at some dark hour of the night, catches your eye. Picking it up, you scowl hard at the words inked onto the page.

“We are not your enemies,” the blocky script reads, “We stand for everyone that fears the future.”

The cult. They knew exactly where you were sleeping... and this is what they do? Not a warning or a threat, but they leave something almost seems to be extending a hand. It's hard to know just what to make of the note, especially this early in the morning, so you bury it in your pocket and move on. As you're leaving the inn you make especially sure to look back over your shoulder, keeping an eye out for anyone that might be shadowing you or watching from afar. It's hard to forget about Ra's words – paranoia might just keep you alive.

A thought occurs as you're walking, and you take a slight detour. Letting the vague memory of the Low Residential streets guide you, you make a winding route through the slums until you emerge at what was once a shrine. A nameless, one-eyed lady of history watched over this place once, you recall, but no longer. Now, it's little more than a broken down shelter from the elements.

One eye. You can't help but sympathise with the nameless goddess.

[1/2]

>>46032127

>Hello!

>>46032450

You wait, hidden within the shrine, and keep an eye on the streets outside. If someone had been following you, they would have to come past this forgotten place at some point. Judging by the sun's sluggish path across the sky, you wait for about an hour before giving up. Maybe you weren't being followed, and it was just an unlucky coincidence that led one of the cultists to your room. Still, it bothers you – and it continues to do so, even as you're leaving the city.

Out here, on the trade road, you have no idea if you're easier or harder to track. There could be any number of cultists mingling with the travellers around you, and a dedicated pursuer would be nearly impossible to identify. On the other hand, you could blend in with the travelling masses just as easily, becoming little more than a face in the crowd.

Or perhaps not, you correct yourself bitterly as people glance at your scarred face and shuffle away from you. A face in the crowd, perhaps, but a disfigured one that simultaneously draws and repels the eye. In time, your scars will start to fade but for now, you'll have to live with the stares you draw. Putting the people around you out of your mind as best as possible, you concentrate on the road ahead. When the Nameless Temple rises high above you, though, you can't help but feel relieved – like you're finally home once more.

When you arrive, you find the place to be not quite as you expect it – a hive of purposeful activity, but with an undercurrent of aimless worry. The growing conflict has reached this place, stifling the normally peaceful atmosphere.

>Meet with the Mentor
>Head down to the archives
>Take a stroll and study the mood some more
>Other

>>46032614
>>Meet with the Mentor
Might as well.

>>46032614
>Take a stroll and study the mood some more

>>46032614
>>Meet with the Mentor
>>Take a stroll and study the mood some more
We could probably just take the scenic route when we go and see the boss.

You need to speak with the Mentor, of course, but you don't feel that you need to do it urgently. For now, you can take a slow wander and see what you can pick up from the general mood. That lingering unease bothers you, and you'd like to get to the bottom of it. Even if it is just mirroring the uncertainty hanging over the rest of the land, you want to be sure.

And so, you take the scenic route towards the Mentor's chambers, roaming up and down long corridors that usually bustle with apprentices and the occasional visitor. Although hardly deserted, the hallways are far from their usual bustle and hum of conversation. It doesn't take you long to figure out why – a number of apprentices have gone missing, you realise. From what the rumours suggest, they simply stole away into the night. Eight in all, a fairly considerable number, and nobody seems to have any idea why. Why did they all leave so suddenly, people are murmuring, and why all at once?

It's impossible to know for sure, but a terrible idea slowly forms in your mind. Infiltration – one of the apprentices that had already vanished could have returned, only to convince a number of his former classmates to leave as well. Pausing just outside the Mentor's domain, you consider just how vulnerable the Nameless Temple is. What can you do to stop this, you wonder, without turning the temple into a prison? Must you put locks on the doors, and guards at every entrance?

The final decision, you think with guilty relief, doesn't lie with you. It will be for the Mentor to decide. Keeping that thought in mind, you allow yourself to be waved through into the old man's room.

[1/2]

>>46032933

He looks old. That's the first thing you notice.

Of course, the Mentor always looks old – ancient even – but today seems especially bad. His head is bowed, and you almost take him for asleep until he whispers a greeting. Awkwardly, you bow and wait to see what his next words are. They take a long time to arrive.

“Ira,” he says slowly, “I am beset by many concerns.”

Yes, you reply, as is the land itself.

“Forgive me,” a slight strength returns to the Mentor's voice as he forces his head up and looks you in the eye, “You have suffered more than I, Ira, and I do not wish to burden you with my many sorrows. I received the news of the Emperor's gift to you – and your gift to the temple. It is appreciated, even if I cannot summon the enthusiasm to give you the thanks you deserve.”

His many sorrows, you repeat silently to yourself, some other bad news that you didn't know about?

“This is a dark time for us all,” the Mentor adds aimlessly, “But we cannot let ourselves waver, nor can we sink into listlessness. Keep moving forwards, isn't that right Ira?”

Of course, you tell him with a conviction you don't quite feel, peace must be maintained. It cannot be taken for granted. With that in mind, you think about the best place to start.

>Stick with business. Tell him about Pit Progress
>Ask about his sorrows
>Raise the issue of the missing apprentices
>Mention the note you were given
>Ask about something else (Write in)
>Other

>>46032995
>Stick with business. Tell him about Pit Progress

Then
>Ask about his sorrows
>Raise the issue of the missing apprentices
Cause they are probably connected.

>>46032995
>>46033017
This, in that order.

You'll get the easy business out of the way first. It might be a stretch to call the events of Pit Progress “easy” in retrospect, but at least they were resolved in a successful matter. Giving as much detail as you can – and not flinching away from the bad parts, no matter how much you'd like to – you recount the events there to the Mentor. A false god, born out of wild delusion and fearful suffering. A god that you granted peace, perhaps returning the town to some kind of peace as well. Even as you try to stress the successful nature of the mission, you see the Mentor's head dipping once more, weighed down with a kind of despair.

“While these crimes continue,” the Mentor says slowly, “There can be no hope of peace. There will always be fresh ground for rebellion, for conflict and revolution. I wish the Emperor would realise that – and I fear that he has, only to press ahead regardless.”

Is that, you ask, one of his many sorrows?

“One of them,” the Mentor meets your eye once more, “I fear unrest may be brewing at Foothills, at the ancient ruins there. I have been waiting fruitlessly for a message from Garl Yamada for a long time. He keeps his silence, Ira, against his word. He promised to keep us informed of the developments there – this silence, then, bothers me.”

Garl, you think to yourself, is one of the few men to consider the Mentor a friend rather than a teacher or master. It was a mutual feeling, so this sudden silence would certainly come as a shock, even during the best of times. Now, when a man needs every friend he can get...

“The children, though, are harder to deal with,” the Mentor heaves a heavy sigh, “They leave at night, fleeing beyond my sight and influence. Beyond my... protection. I do not know who is recruiting them, but their intentions cannot be pure.”

[1/2]

>>46033323

The apprentices, you say carefully, you were wanting to speak with him about this situation. However, you add, if it's not something he wishes to talk about...

“Do not coddle me, Ira,” a note of warning – and the much needed strength that comes with it – enters the Mentor's voice, “I am not a helpless old man, no matter how I might appear to the world outside this room. I am prepared to confront this issue, no matter how dark it is.”

There's still some fire left in him, you realise with relief. Deciding to speak freely, you ask him what he knows of the situation – and what he plans to do about it, if anything.

“From what little information I was able to gather,” the Mentor tells you, “A number of the apprentices left after speaking with a visitor. However, no matter how my trusted agents approach the rest of the apprentices, they will not hint at who the visitor might have been or what they spoke about. Every one of them pleads ignorance, or simply avoids the issue. I cannot bring myself to believe they are all lying or concealing the truth, but...”

But it's always an option, you finish quietly.

“I fear that we're losing their hearts, Ira,” the Mentor confesses, “A path of violence and passion can be so very appealing to the young, especially in the face of the Emperor's provocations. And yet, what can be done to stop them leaving? They were always free to leave, I never wished to imprison or indoctrinate them.”

Shaking his head, he falls silent at that. Either he has nothing left to say, or he can't bring himself to form the words he wishes to speak. Swallowing hard, you try and think what to say.

>Maybe granting them so much freedom was a mistake
>You said it yourself – we can't keep them prisoner
>Action will solve this, not words. We need to act now
>Other

>>46033446
>You said it yourself – we can't keep them prisoner

>>46033446
>You said it yourself – we can't keep them prisoner
"You said that this visitor talked to all the apprentices right? Let me try talking to Koa about this."

>>46033446
>>You said it yourself – we can't keep them prisoner
>Other
Maybe the Mentor can do some influencing of his own. Convince the kids to stick with the temple.

>>46033446
>>You said it yourself – we can't keep them prisoner
Seconding speaking to Koa about this. He trusts us pretty well so he might spill the truth.

>>46033564
Maybe Ira might have better luck in that regard. These youths want action and passion and Ira has been in the thick of it for weeks now. They might respond better to him maybe.

Not that Ira is a speech kind of guy, but maybe blunt, no nonsense is what they need.

>>46033642
I also don't see Koa siding with the guys who tried to kill Miura.

He said it himself, you agree, the apprentices aren't prisoners. Cracking down on them would only drive them away, and it would damage the temple's reputation. In times like this, alienating the rest of the population would be a grave mistake. Maybe, you suggest, the Mentor can try to influence the apprentices directly. Cut off this infiltration at the root and win back their trust.

“I try,” he says sadly, “But I feel... out of touch. More and more, I feel as though we speak a different language, as though we live in different worlds. It's worth a try, though – I can have them gathered, and... No, I'll see about speaking to them personally. One at a time, if that is what it takes.”

It's a good place to start, you assure him. Perhaps it's the decision to take action that has done it, or maybe it was just sharing his worries, but the Mentor seems stronger now. More awake than he was before, at least. You'll do your part, you add, and speak with Koa first of all. You've built up something of a rapport with the boy, and you're fairly certain that he wouldn't protect this cult – not after what he's seen. If any of the other apprentices have mentioned anything to him, you should be able to get it out into the open.

“Yes, Ira,” the Mentor smiles at last, a dry and weary smile, “An excellent idea! I can only ask one thing of you...”

Anything, you reply quickly.

“You are wounded, I see that, but I cannot heal you. Not yet,” the Mentor draws in a rattling breath, “Allow me some time to recover my strength. Time is all I need.”

And time, you assure him, is what you can give. Bowing deeply, you turn and leave the Mentor to his rest. Koa, at this hour, will likely be in his quarters. Then again, Howa might have some insight as well – she spends time teaching the apprentices, occasionally.

>Visit Koa and see what he knows
>Visit Howa at the archives
>Other

>>46033798
>>Visit Howa at the archives

>>46033798
>Talk to Koa while walking over to the archives

>>46033798
>Visit Howa at the archives

>>46033798
>>46033840
This

>>46033798
>>46033840
I like this idea. If we tell Koa that we need help with something it might help put him at ease. It's better than just hitting up with questions straight away at least.

>>46033798
Can't he teach us a little something at least ?

Or would that mean no healing later on ?

>>46034058
He seems out of it in general. He needs some time.

>>46034058

>We'll get the chance of healing or learning a new spell, but both will need to happen later.

>>46034083
Alright then

Speaking of which, when we asked the doctor about the dead guy, he said that he clawed both of his eyes out but somehow could still "see" him if I'm not imagining things

Do we have the same magical vision or does having only one eye give us a penalty to our accuracy not to mention charisma ?

>>46034116

>We don't have any kind of magical vision, unfortunately, so we may have a small accuracy penalty when using our pistol - assuming I remember when the time comes!
>The dead man couldn't really "see" as such, but he was aware that the doctor was near. Being something of a drinker, the doctor reached his own conclusions.

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Howa might know something, you think, but you'd like to go straight to the source first. Once you've heard Koa's side of the story, you can compare that to whatever knowledge Howa has and see how the two accounts correlate. It's a good place to start, at least.

On the way to the dorms, you stop off at your own quarters and replace the crude – and pretty filthy – rag covering your missing eye with a layer of clean bandage. It doesn't make you look any less disfigured, but you look more civilised at least, and that's all you were expecting. Even with the trust you've built up with Koa, interrogating him with your bloody wounds on display would only alienate the poor boy. With that matter out of the way, you find his room and knock on the door.

Apprentices have private rooms these days, you've learned, to aid in their meditation. In your day, you had to share. They weren't fussy with who they paired you with either, with no regard given to age or gender. At least Howa didn't snore, and she never complained about sharing a room with you. There were more apprentices at the temple in those days, more youngsters willing to learn the ways of the gods. For Koa to have a room of his own, numbers must have dropped significantly. If they continue to drop...

Shaking the bleak thoughts from your mind, you greet Koa as he answers the door. Immediately, his face pales.

“Ira,” he gasps, “Your face!”

Occupational hazard, you tell him quickly, and not something he needs to concern himself with. Is he busy right now, you ask, because you could use a hand at the archives.

“Uh, sure,” he nods, some of his usual vigour returning, “My help, you mean? Sure, I'm not... not doing anything. I mean, I was trying to meditate, but that's kind of... not doing anything, right?”

That's the spirit.

[1/2]

>>46034229

As you're walking down to the archives, you pause in a particularly deserted corridor and speak directly to Koa. You won't mince your words, you tell him, he's mature enough for you to discuss this openly.

“Okay,” Koa replies cautiously, waiting for you to continue, “I mean, I don't know what this is about, but-”

The missing apprentices, you begin bluntly, that's what this is about. Some more have left the temple lately, and there has been the suggestion that someone talked them into leaving. If that's the case, the culprit might have spoken with all of the apprentices – Koa included. Is there anything, in that case, that he can share with you?

“I...” Koa looks down at his shoes, “Ira, um, this isn't personal. It's just the other apprentices aren't... happy. It's not like they're plotting against you guys, or planning on deserting in huge numbers, but... I guess they feel like we're doing nothing. They're being trained in a profession that might not even exist in a decade, but they're not being taught to resist that change. Some – and I mean that, “some” and not all – of the other guys want to fight back. So, when someone comes and starts to tells us about this army...”

An army, you repeat softly, and not a cult.

“That's what they call it,” Koa shrugs, “Look, I wasn't invited to the “meeting”, so all this is second hand information. It might all be rumour and exaggeration, you know?”

>Do you know who came to speak with the other apprentices? The boy in this drawing, maybe?
>Why weren't you invited?
>What do you think, Koa, do you want to fight the Emperor?
>Other

>>46034316
>Do you know who came to speak with the other apprentices? The boy in this drawing, maybe?
>What do you think, Koa, do you want to fight the Emperor?
(Well other than for Miura's hand, but best leave that unspoken.)

>>46034316

>Do you know who came to speak with the other apprentices? The boy in this drawing, maybe?
>Why weren't you invited?
>What do you think, Koa, do you want to fight the Emperor?

>The next post might be slightly delayed. I apologise for the disruption.

>>46034316
>>Do you know who came to speak with the other apprentices? The boy in this drawing, maybe?
>>Why weren't you invited?
>>What do you think, Koa, do you want to fight the Emperor?

Does he know who it was that came to speak with the other apprentices, you ask as you take out the rough sketch and pass it over, was it this boy?

“That's... let me think...” Koa folds and unfolds the sketch in his hands as he thinks, “His name was Sarx, I think. It was one of those funny eastern names, you know the type. He had a twin sister as well, she vanished about the same time he did. He was always pretty popular here because he was smart, the kind of smart where he'd be modest about it. Had a way with words as well – so if anyone was capable of convincing the others to leave...”

But he doesn't know for certain?

“I told you, I wasn't invited,” Koa can't keep a faint bitterness out of his voice as he says this, “I only found out about it after it was over.”

He did mention that, you muse, was there a reason for that?

“It might be because we've been working together,” Koa guesses, “Or because I've, you know, made up my mind. I'm working towards putting an end to this conflict, to this struggle – I'd hardly be willing to sit quietly and listen to them trying to stir up a fight.”

So, you ask, he's not tempted to fight against the Emperor?

“I can see why some people would be,” Koa's answer comes in a stiff voice, “I think what he's doing is wrong and dangerous, but I don't think fighting against it will help anyone. I just wish more people thought that – it's like everyone is being forced to pick a side, us or them.” He shudders, shaking his head, “I don't like the way things are looking.”

>Neither do I. Head back to your dorm now, Koa, that's all the help I needed
>If you spoke with the other apprentices, do you think they'd listen to you?
>I've got a question for you... (Write in)
>Other

>>46034722
>>Neither do I.
>If you spoke with the other apprentices, do you think they'd listen to you?
"You do have more perspective than them."

I think. Moloch, is Koa the only apprentice thats getting hands on experience right now?

>>46034774

>The other apprentices DO get field experience, but definitely not as much, and it tends to be far more routine. Very little on the scale that Koa's been involved in.

>>46034722
>If you spoke with the other apprentices, do you think they'd listen to you?

>>46034722
>>If you spoke with the other apprentices, do you think they'd listen to you?
>>I've got a question for you... (Write in)
Would he feel safe speaking with them?

You don't like the way things are going either, you agree, but that's why you've got to take a stand. That said, you can't take a stand alone – you'll need to shift public opinion onto your side. If he spoke with the other apprentices and urged calm, you ask, would they listen to him?

“I don't know,” Koa shakes his head, shrugging, “Some of them would, I think, but not all of them. Honestly, I think some of them have already made up their minds – they're just waiting, biding their time. It sounds paranoid, I know, but...”

But there's always the chance. Would he feel safe, then, speaking to his fellow apprentices?

“Safe? I really don't know,” Koa pales a little, “I don't want to believe that they'd do anything so rash as... as hurting me, but I never thought they'd end up kidnapping people either. I don't know what to think, any more.” His voice trails off as he looks up and down the corridor, as if checking to see if anyone had been spying on your conversation. When he speaks up again, his voice is firmer. “If you want me to speak up,” he offers bravely, “I'll do it. I won't let these cultists push me around.”

If the Nameless Temple had more apprentices like Koa, you think bitterly, then it might not be in this mess. The boy is ready to risk his health – maybe even his life – in the pursuit of a peaceful solution. While others are leading the youth towards violent extremism, he is willing to openly disagree. You can respect that, but should you really risk the boy like this? You've seen, after all, what your enemies are willing to do to those who oppose them.

>Don't risk yourself, Koa. Just keep your eyes and ears open
>Do what you can to keep the peace
>Other

>>46035155
>Do what you can to keep the peace
I don't like risking Koa, but there needs to be at least ONE voice of reason in the apprentice group. An stance that the people on the fence can latch onto instead of only hearing dissent. That said, if he ever feels he is in danger he comes to us.

>>46035155
>>Don't risk yourself, Koa. Just keep your eyes and ears open
Sometimes just being here to listen to someone is enough to calm down tempers, be the big brother.

>>46035247
>>46035237
>>46035155
Can we combine these two? He doesn't need to start rallys or arguments. Just be a voice of reason and someone the apprentices can talk to.

>>46035310

>Yes, that's a perfectly valid choice.

>>46035155
Combine the two like >>46035310 suggested.

It's a hard call, especially when you know what you're going to be risking. You'd be only too happy to put yourself in harm's way, but the issue becomes less clear once you start playing with someone else's life. Even when Koa is willing to take the chance, you can't quite convince yourself to put him into the firing line.

Even so, there needs to be a voice of reason among the apprentices, someone to represent the voice of peace. If not, and the apprentices only ever hear talk of dissent, they will be as good as lost. A compromise, then.

Don't cause trouble or start arguments, you tell Koa, but act as the voice of reason. His fellow apprentices need a calming influence that they can bring their troubles to, and you need him to be that influence. The sort of person that would make a good older brother, you decide, always willing to listen and calm the mood. If that gets him in any trouble, though, he needs to stop and bring it to you or the Mentor. Don't take risks, you finish.

“I can do that,” Koa nods, “I feel sort of like a spy, but I think you're right. I think this is the safest way of going about it.”

Good, you tell him as you glance down the corridor to the waiting archives, now he should get back to his dorm. Practice that meditation.

“Huh?” Koa's voice shifts suddenly, growing lighter as the difficult subject passes, “Didn't you need my help with something? I thought you... oh!” As realisation dawn, he laughs a little, “I see. Got you. I'll, uh, get to work then. If I learn anything and you're not here, I'll send it to the Mentor.”

Good, you repeat, now get out of here. You've got Howa to deal with next, and you can only wish that she'll be as helpful as him.

“Good luck, then!” Koa tells you brightly, turning and hurrying back towards the dorms.

You'll need it.

[1/2]

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>>46035594

It's not hard to find Howa – she's sitting at her desk at the front of the archives, waiting for you. Her eyes are pointed down, locked upon the thick and dusty tome she is studying. No, you realise as you draw a little closer, she isn't studying it at all. She's staring at the page, not daring to take her eyes from it. Even when you start opposite her, she doesn't lift her gaze. You're about to clear your throat politely when she speaks up.

“I don't want to look,” she says, a slight tremor in her voice, “I don't know what I'm going to see when I do, and I don't think I want to know.”

It's not that bad, you insist, just... not that great either. A silence follows your words, broken only by the sound of Howa taking a long – and slightly uneven – breath. Having steeled her nerves, she looks up at your face.

She pales. “Oh Ira...” she murmurs, when her voice finally returns, “There won't be anything left of us, will there?”

>An eye and a leg. We both had spares
>I'm sorry. I wish I hadn't worried you
>Forget it, it's just a scratch. Have you been able to find anything on that ring?
>Other

>>46035743
>An eye and a leg. We both had spares
>I'm sorry. I wish I hadn't worried you

1 Petra.

>>46035594
>I feel sort of like a spy
Aww shit, we could have expanded on being the older brother doesn't mean selling out the younger sibling but being the one that look out for anything that could trouble the younger one and fix 'em without the adults meddling and if things are way other his head bring the problem to the adult in a calm and orderly manner.

>>46035743
>An eye and a leg. We both had spares
Although, I'd prefer not to have anymore pieces shaved off of either of us
>I'm sorry. I wish I hadn't worried you
Then
>Forget it, it's just a scratch. Have you been able to find anything on that ring?

>>46035743
>>An eye and a leg. We both had spares
That said I should be more careful
>>I'm sorry. I wish I hadn't worried you

>>46035803
Actually scratch my vote for
>Forget it, it's just a scratch. Have you been able to find anything on that ring?

It doesn't make much sense when paired with the others.

>>46035743
You mean to tell me I'm not handsome? I though the ladies loved the look.

Just an eye and a leg, you tell her with a nonchalant shrug, you had spares of both.

Howa looks aghast at the sheer flippancy of your comment, her eyes wide with a mixture of horror and outrage. Then, slowly – against her will, almost – the corners of her lips turn up in a tender smile. “Ira Furyo,” she whispers, “You're not as funny as you think you are.”

But you are handsome, you continue as you see how far you can push your luck, isn't this the look that all the ladies go for these days?

“You mean the “unshaven Wanderer that hasn't bathed in countless days” look?” Howa rolls her eyes, a faint colour rising in her cheeks, “Gosh, I'll have to ask Sanae. I don't know what all “the ladies” go for.”

Ouch. Letting your face settle into the more usual seriousness, you apologise to Howa. You wish you hadn't let her worry like that, you tell her, but she deserved the warning. Despite your brave face, you add, you really do hope neither of you lose anything else from now on. You'll be more careful in future.

“That's right,” Howa nods primly, forcing a more disapproving expression onto her face, “Now, about the other half of your lovely note – you wanted to know about the Ring of the Faceless, yes?”

Was she able to find anything?

“Fortunately, yes,” Howa rises from behind her desk, the wooden cane she uses clicking against the stone floor, “Come, I want to go for a walk. I'll give you the story as we go.”

A walk, you ask, really?

“I can walk,” Howa snaps, “I'm not that far gone, I can walk easily enough. Humour me just this once – I want to have the open sky above us while we talk.” Then, surprisingly quick for a woman with one leg, Howa lurches past you and out of the archives, leaving you to shake your head in weary amusement and follow close behind.

[1/2]

>>46036145

Once outside, under the cloudless sky, you walk in silence for a while. Howa holds tightly onto your arm, as if she's worried that either she will fall or you will run. Just when it seems like you're going to have to press the issue, to ask what she was able to dig up, she speaks.

“Time for a history lesson, Ira,” she begins, “What do you remember about the Time of Mists? We WERE taught this, so you've got no excuse for not knowing.”

You were taught it, you correct her, nearly twenty years ago. You've got a damn good excuse for not knowing this – but you DO remember some parts. The Time of Mist, you tell her, gets the name from the fact that it dates back before formally recorded history. All information about that time comes from legends or unreliable sources. Is that, then, where this magic ring comes from?

“Got it in one,” Howa nods, wavering slightly and pressing herself tighter against your side, “The first mention of it reads “the Ring of the Faceless was brought to me by a traveller from Makai”. This comes from the journal of an alleged sorcerer, by the way, whose name has been lost. A pretty standard villain, if everything within his journal was true – he ate human flesh, stole his magic from the gods themselves and generally terrorised the world. Anyway...”

You don't remember learning about any of this. If you'd been taught the good stuff like this, you remark, maybe you would have paid attention.

“You're a barbarian,” Howa smiles at you, “The stories claim that the Ring of the Faceless would let the wearer appear in any form they liked – that of a trusted friend, say, or even a lover. However, once they stopped speaking with the person they deceived, that victim would forget who they had spoken with. All they remembered was...”

A steel ring, you finish.

[2/3]

>>46036345

“Correct,” Howa pats you on the arm, “And that's not all. It was said that the wearer of the ring would sacrifice their entire identity – their name, their history, their original face even. They could not remove the ring, short of cutting off the finger it was attached to.”

So this nameless sorcerer likely wore the ring, you suggest, but what was their identity sacrificed to? The god that made the ring?

“Doesn't say,” Howa shakes her head, “Maybe he didn't know – or he didn't care. In either case the journals ended quite suddenly, so I think we can assume he met a bad end. That's more or less all I could find quickly, and it's all pretty unreliable as you said. Does this sound like the ring you were expecting to hear about?”

It certainly fits, you agree. There was no suggestion of how it might have ended up in the Imperial treasury, though?

“Short of the wearer strolling in – and, with a perfect disguise, they could probably do that – and cutting off their finger?” Howa thinks for a moment, “Nothing. The records don't say anything about it appearing and disappearing at random. Is there anything else you want to know about?”

>That's all I wanted. Thank you for this
>That name, “Makai”. Familiar?
>I don't know much about sorcery
>There was something I wanted to know about... (Write in)
>Other

>>46036437
>That name, “Makai”. Familiar?
>I don't know much about sorcery

>>46036437
>That name, “Makai”. Familiar?
>I don't know much about sorcery
Unless its the thing Wanderer's do, just under a different name.

>>46036437
>That name, “Makai”. Familiar?
>I don't know much about sorcery

>>46036437
>>That name, “Makai”. Familiar?
>>I don't know much about sorcery
Not much else to ask about I suppose.

She said those travellers came from somewhere called “Makai”, you say, does the name mean anything to her?

“Actually, no,” Howa frowns, as if this rare moment of ignorance is a personal insult, “There are almost no mentions of it. I was almost about to give up when Sanae gave me a lead to go on.”

Sanae, you repeat, her assistant?

“She likes all those old legends, the more whimsical and baseless the better,” Howa smiles a little at that, “I know, it figures. She said that the name “Makai” appears in a few stories as a reference to a distant land. Always distant – someone would go there and never return, or there would be invaders from Makai. They didn't mention ships from Makai though, which interests me. It almost seems like...”

The southern border, you think aloud, right?

“That's what I thought as well,” Howa nods eagerly, her eyes alight with the pursuit of new knowledge, “It fits, especially the part about people never returning. Of course, there's not really much we can DO with the information – it doesn't give us a safe route over the mountains or anything.”

No, you agree, what about sorcery? You don't really know anything about the word – is it another name for the magic Wanderers are capable of?

“Not quite,” Howa shakes her head, “It's another long buried secret, lost these days. It was considered the art of stealing magic power from the gods, inevitably hurting them and driving them into slumber in the process. Very evil, even in those days. If – and that's a big IF – it really existed, I'd say there's been a deliberate attempt at wiping it out and burying the mere knowledge of it. Can't say I'm surprised, really – the world is a bad enough place without that kind of misery being spread about.”

[1/2]

>>46036926

Howa says that last part with a sigh, leaning heavily on your side as you slowly stop walking. Grunting softly, she lets go of your arm – with a certain reluctance – and eases herself to the ground, stretching out her crippled leg. Sighing with regret, she rubs the joint, the wrapped stump where flesh ends and polished wood begins.

“I'm going to regret this tomorrow,” she says, in the tone of polite conversation, “This... thing rubs like a bastard. Even walking back is going to be a pain in the-”

A pain in the leg?

“Ira Furyo, court jester,” Howa snorts, “Yes, I heard about that. A landed noble, now are you? Ah, at least we'll have somewhere nice to build our marital home...”

You've been to Dumas, you remind her, and it wasn't that nice.

“That was the bit you took exception to?” Howa glances up at you, a cynical kind of smile on her face, “My, Ira, you are being uncommonly playful today. Maybe taking that small bit of weight off your head was all it took to lighten your spirits.”

She's not exactly solemn either, you point out, in case she hadn't noticed.

“True,” Howa admits, lapsing into a long silence. “It's nice though, isn't it?” she asks a moment later, “Sitting and talking like this, I mean.”

>It's not very productive though, is it?
>It's something I'd like to do more often
>We really should spend more time together, yes
>Other

>>46036985
>It's something I'd like to do more often
"I guess losing an eye ironically gives some perspective. Not to mention how crazy everything has been lately."

>>46036985
>>It's something I'd like to do more often

>>46036985
>It's something I'd like to do more often
>We really should spend more time together, yes
>Other
I feel like I've done more recently than in the entirety of my career as a Wanderer. The creeping weariness drives home the whole 'old man' thing more than I'm comfortable with

>>46036985
>It's something I'd like to do more often
>We really should spend more time together, yes

It's something you'd like to do more often, you admit as you lower yourself down to the grass. It's warm, but relaxing in a patch of sunlight like this really seems to drive home how busy you've been lately. It seems, you begin aimlessly, like you've done more recently than in the rest of your career. Even as someone who likes to keep busy, you add, it's starting to wear on you. This... fatigue creeping into your bones really makes you feel like an old man.

“It's not the fatigue that does it,” Howa shoots back, dragging herself over to lean against you, “It's the fact that you ARE an old man.”

Laughing softly at that – such a perfect, typical Howa reply – you shakes your head. Maybe losing an eye has given you a new perspective on things, you decide, because you'd like to spend more time like this. Together, you add, with her. It's just, with things being as crazy as they are right now...

“I know,” Howa sighs, “And I think they're only going to get worse. I hate seeing the Mentor like this, you know? He seems to get older by the day.”

Howa, you point out, everyone gets older by the day. That's what ageing IS.

“You know what I mean,” she snorts, “Don't be petty, Ira, just when we were having such a nice time. Don't spoil the mood.”

Although you murmur an agreement, some part of your mind can't settle back into the relaxing groove. Now that Howa has mentioned the Mentor, you know that you should really speak with him once more. You should really take his Koa's information.

But... it's comfortable here, and you feel more at peace than you've been in a long time.

>Business comes first. Speak with the Mentor
>You've earned some time off. Relax for a while longer
>Other

>>46037416
>You've earned some time off. Relax for a while longer.

>>46037416
>You've earned some time off. Relax for a while longer
Been on the go for weeks, lost an eye. An extra half an hour won't end the world.

I hope.

>>46037416
>You've earned some time off. Relax for a while longer
Fuck it. We've worked nonstop for a while now.

>>46037416
>>You've earned some time off. Relax for a while longer


Maybe arrange to speak to all the apprentices before we leave.


Also who wants to bet Mentor is a Sorcerer?

>>46037416
>>You've earned some time off. Relax for a while longer
Leisure time.

>>46037687
I don't think we are leaving. Just kicking back for a few hours.

You've spent weeks on the move, and you've lost an eye. You've done as much for this temple as three other Wanderers could have done. You've earned yourself half an hour – at least.

So, letting a low breath slip out, you close your eyes and concentrate on the sensation of sunlight pouring down upon you. Howa leans against your back, her soft weight shifting as she breathes in and out. It might be something as simple as sitting together in silence, but it's a perfect moment. So, of course, something needs to spoil it.

“About what happened...” Howa says slowly, “You know, back when I lost my leg and you were-”

You were stabbed in the heart, you murmur, by something that was neither a shadow nor a tentacle. You still remember it well, no matter how much you'd rather not. Or rather, the injury itself wasn't so bad – cold, rather than painful – but the recovery was hell. It was months before the other Wanderers would even look you in the eye or speak to you without their lips curling in unconscious distaste. The apprentices avoided you for a while longer, fearing something they couldn't quite name.

You could put a name to their fears, though – tainted, corrupted, ruined. They all thought you were contaminated, the countless spells engraved upon your heart erased and replaced by... what, the tainted matter of some inhuman soul? The Mentor did what he good – easing their fears, and urging understanding – but he had his limits. Even now, years on, you don't like to associate with the other Wanderers much.

So yes, you tell Howa with a kind of resigned bitterness, you know about back then. You know all about it.

[1/2]

>>46038021

Silent for a moment, Howa sighs heavily and reaches round, awkwardly flapping a hand at you in an attempt at patting your shoulder. “Oh, Ira,” she murmurs, “You really don't like talking about it, do you?”

Can she really blame you, you ask, and does she like talking about it?

“I suppose not I can't blame you,” Howa replies, “But, you know, at times like this... I feel like I can live with it. I can accept what happened. Moments like these make up for it, even if we get to share them so rarely. What I'm trying to say, Ira, is that I-”

“Sir?” a shrill voice calls, “Ma'am? Are you there?” A crashing of undergrowth being trampled, and a panting girl appears on the scene. Plain and mousy looking, she struggles to get her breath back as she stares at you and Howa.

“Sanae,” Howa growls, without opening her eyes, “What. Do you. Want?”

“There's a message, Ma'am, a message for the Mentor...” the assistant stammers, “Uh, but I thought you should see it first. It's about Garl Yamada.”

What, you ask quickly, what about him?

“He's dead,” Sanae rasps, “He's been killed. Murdered.”

Something like that, you think bitterly, ruins the mood far better than anything you could ever say. Howa, shaken, can't quite bring herself to answer. She just stares, instead, before glancing around at you. Waiting, you realise, for you to take the lead – she's old fashioned like that.

>Slow down, Sanae. Tell me everything
>Take this to the Mentor straight away
>We'll take this to him together. Talk as we walk
>Other

>>46038240
>>We'll take this to him together. Talk as we walk


There will be hell to pay.

>>46038240
>We'll take this to him together. Talk as we walk

Dat blocked confession.

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56 KB JPG

>>46038240
>We'll take this to him together. Talk as we walk
Never a dull moment

>>46038240
>We'll take this to him together. Talk as we walk

>>46038240
>We'll take this to him together. Talk as we walk

You know, I kind of want to see what Ira is like at his prime. Young of body, heart having all it's spell cards, and ready to punch the hand in the face.

You'll take him the message together, you tell Sanae in the most reassuring voice you can muster under the circumstances, but you want her to tell you what she knows as you go. Moving with as much care as you can, you stand and help Howa to her feet. She winces a little as she takes a step forwards – or was she glaring at Sanae?

“Um, yes,” Sanae begins, wringing her hands and fluttering around you as you help Howa back to the Nameless Temple, “You see, Sir Yamada was exchanging messages with the Mentor about his attempts at gathering information. You know, with the hillfolk in the region.”

Yes, you reply patiently, you were aware of that. You were also aware that Garl had been very quiet lately – now you know why. Is it absolutely certain that he was murdered?

“Well, um, yes,” the assistant shuffles her feet, barely able to slow her pace to match yours, “He was supposed to give a sermon – more of a town meeting, really – only he didn't show up. When he didn't show up, they – the townsfolk – sent someone round to check his house. The place had been ransacked, totally wrecked, and Sir Yamada had been, um, beaten.”

Beaten.

“Badly,” Sanae clears her throat, “They didn't recognise him straight away.”

“Gods have mercy,” Howa grunts, “Those bastards are going to pay for this.”

“Um,” Sanae pauses, “Who are they, exactly? I mean, I'm only a librarian so I probably don't need to know, but... it's not the Emperor, is it? You hear things, you know, about anyone who speaks out against him vanishing, and I know Sir Yamada wasn't very... subtle about some of his views.”

>Go back to the library Sanae, it's safer this way
>The Emperor will be called to account. He's not above judgement
>It wasn't him. We've got other enemies
>Wait, tell me something... (Write in)
>Other

>>46038704
>Go back to the library Sanae, it's safer this way

>>46038704
>>Go back to the library Sanae, it's safer this way
>It wasn't him. We've got other enemies
Just be aware that things aren't exactly as they seem and are actively getting worse

>>46038704
>It wasn't him. We've got other enemies
>Go back to the library Sanae, it's safer this way

>>46038704
>>Go back to the library Sanae, it's safer this way
>>It wasn't him. We've got other enemies
The Emperor would have made it public, not hidden.

It wasn't the Emperor, you tell her, he would have done it in public. The temple has other enemies, ones worse than the Emperor.

“Enemies?” Sanae asks, her eyes widening slightly. Her entire expression suggests terror and confusion, with a single thought rising so obviously to the surface that you can even put it into words - “I wish I was back in my library reading old books”.

Go back to the library, you tell the girl softly, it's safer that way. She needs to keep one thing in mind though – things are not what they seem, and they might be getting actively worse. These are dangerous times.

“Yes they are,” Sanae nods, “Um, can you take the Mentor his message? I'd rather... not.”

You'll pass it along, you assure her, you'll make sure he gets it. You say that with a kind of quiet despair – this is the last thing the Mentor needs to hear at a time like this, the death of one of his rare friends. Pausing for a moment in the entrance to the Nameless Temple, Howa pushes herself away from you and leans heavily on her cane.

“Ira, he'll take it better coming from you,” she says sadly, “I'm going to head back to the library, I want to read up on a few things. There might be... leads. Something that might hint at who did this.” Lurching forwards a few paces more, she lets Sanae help her along. “Thank you for today, Ira,” she adds with a backwards glance, forcing a fragile smile, “It's a pity it had to end up this way.”

Yes, you agree, a pity. The moment stretches out – you both seem to be waiting for the other to say something – before Howa looks away and the tension breaks. Clicking her cane with every step, she struggles away.

[1/2]

>>46039131

Holding the letter out before you like a blessed scroll – although the thin page, densely covered in writing, is more like a curse – you approach the Mentor, his ancient frame sunken into a deep kneel. Kneeling opposite him, you pause for a long moment.

You've had word from Garl, you begin, but it's not good news. You hand the letter over, even as you lay out the details. They sound stark and cold coming from you, hardly the comforting words he needs right now, but the Mentor accepts them without comment or reaction. Finally, when you finish recounting the sparse details you have, he nods once.

“I see,” he says slowly, “Garl Yamada was a good man, a friend. I mourn his passing, of course, but...”

But, you repeat softly, but what?

“But the world is bigger than one man,” the Mentor says, the words dropping like a cold stone from his lips, “We must move forwards. We must discover his killers, and figure out why he was murdered. Thank you, Ira, for bringing this to my attention.”

>I'll leave you. You need time
>I spoke with Koa, we should discuss the apprentices
>Are you... okay?
>What are my next orders, Mentor?
>Other

>>46039322
>Are you... okay?
"You don't need to go stoic for my sake Mentor. We can talk, before moving onto buisness."

>>46039322
>>I spoke with Koa, we should discuss the apprentices
>>Are you... okay?
These, because putting on a brave face might be the WRONG thing to do now. They've closed their hearts, and doing the same only encourages them.

>>46039371
This. He might be older than the floor he's standing on but that doesn't mean he has to skim over this like its no big deal.

>>46039322
>>Are you... okay?
Mentor you don't need to put up a front.
Later
>I spoke with Koa, we should discuss the apprentices
I was thinking telling them exactly what they may face when the blood of men starts flowing freely may make some of them reconsider.

>>46039322
>>Are you... okay?
I told an apprentice that sometimes just being here to listen can help

This is a coping measure. It has to be. You've seen it before, in yourself as well as in others. He's closed off his heart, thrusting any and all emotions down into a deep pit so that he never has to confront them.

That's what you tell yourself, at least, because the alternative – that the Mentor is truly indifferent – is too horrible to consider.

Is he okay, you ask, really okay? He shouldn't feel the need to act stoic for your benefit, you tell him. In fact, just today you told one of the apprentices how valuable listening can be – you're willing to listen, if he wants to speak for a while.

“Garl was a good friend,” the Mentor says slowly, “I'm sure I don't have to tell you the value of one of those. I won't pretend to have many friends – my position forces me to keep the world at arm's reach – but I cherished his friendship, and the advice he gave me over the years. But tell me, Ira, how old do you think I am?”

You pause at that, unsure what he wants you to say. Very... old?

“Older than you know,” the ancient man sighs, “I've seen many people come and go, passing from birth to death in the blink of an eye. I cannot truly grieve for one man, no matter how much I wish I could. We can learn from Garl's death, and we can see his killers punished – by the proper authorities – but what else can be done? There will need to be a funeral, a ceremony in his name, but that... I cannot do. I cannot travel out there. If you would do something for me, Ira, I would ask that you read the words. Bless Garl's passing, because I cannot.”

You'll do that, you whisper, you can do that.

“Now, business,” the Mentor says heavily, “I fear this news will be no easier.”

[1/2]

>>46039689

Perhaps not, you answer vaguely, but there might be light. You spoke with Koa, and he was able to give you some information about the other apprentices. As a group, they seem to be moving, slowly, towards a more aggressive path. Even those who have remained silent may still harbour sympathy for your enemies – and they may spread that viewpoint to the undecided. You face infiltration, subversion and conflict, you warn, and there seems little that can be done about it. Yet, Koa is willing to work against the flow – speaking to the calm and the peaceful.

The Mentor nods once, a single decisive motion, “What would you do, if you were tasked with ending this?”

You think they need to be spoken to with care and understanding, you begin, as individual minds worth cherishing. You think-

“No,” your teacher interrupts, “I asked what you would do, not what you think should be done.”

Then, you reply instead, you would show them war. Show them what they could expect, when the blood of men starts to flow freely. Some may reconsider – the ones worth saving. The others, those who welcome war, are already lost.

“It seems that you have become the teacher,” the Mentor almost smiles, “But I have a few things left to teach you. An old trick of Garl's, one that I would be honoured pass down to you. Or, if you wish, I could heal your wounds – although I fear the eye may never see again.”

>I wish to be healed
>Teach me this trick

>>46039854
>Teach me this trick

>>46039854
>>Teach me this trick

>>46039854
>Teach me this trick

>>46039854
>Teach me this trick
We could use it. The wounds will heal on their own in time.

>>46039854
>Teach me this trick
in honor of Garl

In Garl Yamada's name, you decide, you would learn this trick.

“A noble choice,” the Mentor nods, “Tell me, Ira, do you remember when Garl struck you with that training sword? Why did he do it?”

You spoke ill of him, you recall, and then you tried to strike him. It was like punching stone, only to have a mountain fall on top of you in retaliation. Even in the sombre moment, you find yourself smiling at the memory. You've still got the scar.

“You do,” the Mentor nods, mirroring your fond smile. He reaches across and touches your forehead, touching the old wound. When he pulls his hand away, there is a soft glow playing around his hand. “This was passed down by Titanos himself, and then passed from Garl to me. Now, in his name, I pass it to you.” Without another word, he presses the finger to your chest, to your heart. Shivering slightly, you feel the new magic enter your body.

>New spell card gained:
>[Titanos] As the Mountains
>“Become as harsh and unyielding as the mountains, Wander, as I was.”
>Until the end of the current combat, all damage is reduced by 5, and all attacks gain a +5 modifier.

“Now,” the Mentor says, closing his eyes for a moment as he gathers his strength, “I have one request – return to Foothills, Ira, and investigate this matter. Uncover the identity of Garl's killers, and chase them to the furthest corners of the land. This, I ask of you – will you do it?”

>I will do it gladly
>With respect, we have larger matters to focus on
>I cannot do this. Let the Emperor enforce the law
>Other

>>46040188
>>I will do it gladly
May I speak to the apprentices first, or is that saved better for later? I thought it may be prudent to strike while the wound is fresh, as it were.

>>46040188
>I will do it gladly

>>46040188
Little conflicted here. We could indeed chase them down and reveal them, but we could also play their game but assault them on an ideological level. They'll be more willing to talk if we don't pursue them so doggedly on a physical front.

>>46040188
>I will do it gladly
We've done what we could for the apprentice situation as it stands now outside of direct conversation with them. And even then I feel we would need to talk each of them individually to get the greatest effect.

>>46040188
>>46040269
but I suppose we are in agreement of dealing with it as an issue.
>I will do it gladly

The guns are pretty important too, though. And do we need to sign anything for passing over the island?

There are a few matters you have to discuss first, you point out. The simplest matter is the paperwork – for passing the island over to the temple's control, do you need to sign anything?

“Of course,” the Mentor nods slowly after thinking, “Yes, there were papers sent. They arrived shortly after we spoke for the first time. You'll have to forgive me – matters such as these elude me. The papers are with my aide, at his desk. If you truly wish to release your grip on Dumas, just sign them and the deed will be done.”

Excellent. Next issue – the apprentices. It might be prudent to speak with them now, as soon as possible, but if-

“I would ask that you wait,” the Mentor interrupts you, “I wished to speak with some of them, the ones that I feel may be... vulnerable. Perhaps it would be best to consider this my last throw of the dice, my last attempt at reaching out to them. Grant me this small allowance, Ira.”

Very well, you reply, it's his place to decide after all. As for Garl... you'll do it gladly. It would be an honour.

“Thank you,” the Mentor bows his head, “I am lucky to have a student like you, Ira. However, I must ask for some time alone now – to remember Garl.”

Nodding silently – everything that needed to be said, has been said – you rise and leave. At the desk outside, you ask for the papers and prepare to sign them. Pausing for the briefest moment, you scrawl your name across the bottom.

You never wanted an island anyway.

>I'll have to end things here for tonight. Next thread on Friday, and I'll stick around for a while in case of any questions!

>>46040570
>You never wanted an island anyway.
Is this foreshadowing for HAPPENING?

>>46040570
Thanks for running Moloch.

Disregarding crazy cult armies for a minute, how much of this shit would be solved if Sho got off his comfy little throne, actually saw his people outside of the city, and sat down and just fuckin talked to Lapis about the train?

>>46040603

Well, I do have certain things planned out for Dumas in the future - prepared just in case we visited it today - but we're not talking "end of the world" stuff just yet!

>>46040670

I wonder. Assuming Sho has good intentions, he might be able to reach a kind of compromise. However, that doesn't take any other motives into account - and there's more to Sho than meets the eye!

>>46040760
>and there's more to Sho than meets the eye!
He's pretty good at playing the arbitrary little ruler then.

>>46040760
So when is Mentor going to each us that healing technique that heals serious wounds so we can patch ourselves up?

Heal a man, you heal him for a day. Teach a man to heal, you heal him for a lifetime. Or until his mana runs out.

>>46040870

That's something of a thorny issue, I'm afraid. A matter of certain limitations that I can't quite reveal yet. Sorry!

>>46040949
>“Older than you know,” the ancient man sighs

Is the dude pseudo immortal or something and everytime he heals someone it siphon's what remains of his lifeforce?

>>46040990
He's either a legit God, or a Sorcerer who may as well be one. Loch's been foreshadowing hard, and it'd explain why he seems so much more frail as apprentices and Wanderers are lost.

>>46040990

At this point, I don't think it's a spoiler to reveal that the Mentor isn't an entirely normal human. However, he isn't using his own lifeforce to heal people. Again, I can't be too exact or precise about anything at this moment. Not without some pretty major spoilers!

>>46040949
So hows Howa doing? Must have been an emotional rollercoaster today.

>>46041148

That's an understatement! She was just about to make her feelings known as well, something that's a pretty big deal for her. On the other hand, it was a genuinely enjoyable time she shared with Ira - and the prospect of more moments like that in the future gives her a great deal of hope. Things might work out okay after all!

>>46041140
Mentor must have a crazy backstory.

Got a question for you thats kind of awkward to ask but do you mind if do some writefaggotry for Devil Summoner? I have some free time coming up and wanted to try my hand at some writing which I haven't done in forever.

>>46041208
Ira not hanging up on the 'marital home' comment might have given some hope eh?

>>46041217

Feel free, go ahead - I'd be pretty interested in seeing what you come up with, as well!

>Mentor's backstory

"Crazy" would probably be the right word, yes!

>>46041278
>Feel free, go ahead - I'd be pretty interested in seeing what you come up with, as well!

Thanks. Since London isn't running anymore I'll just tweet it at you when (if) I get it done. Honestly not sure what I am going to do yet but it'll probably land on the comedic side.

>>46041268

Which raises the issue - did Ira merely take it as a joke and let it stand because of that, or were there deeper feelings at work?
Either way, it certainly gave her heart a lift!

>>46041322

Good luck!

>>46041336
I could see Ira hanging up the Wanderer business and living some humble life after all of this. Though it does seem he is shaping up to be the next Mentor maybe.

And maybe things might get even crazier resulting in a way different ending than predicted kinda like London.

Rereading the first thread of London and having Carnby ask 'Where do you see yourself in a few years' is pretty funny.

>>46041511

Wanderers often settle down eventually. Either they get too old for the nomadic life and settle down, or they find a god that they can devote their entire life to. I've got to admit, though, I can't see Ira being very good at settling down. There's always going be one last job!

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>>46041278
>>Mentor's backstory
>"Crazy" would probably be the right word, yes!

>>46041674

Not confirming anything but, I won't entirely rule it out either.

>>46041790
How's Aya doing? Koa well liked among apprentices?

>>46041802

Aya is busy writing the story of the year - covering the worst parts of Pit Progress - so she's as happy as ever.
On the other hand, I can't really imagine Koa making many friends in the future. He's doing a brave thing, but that rarely ends up being a popular path to walk!